This is it, the big 3-OH! You’ve finally made it to the next big phase in your life – your 30th birthday. Whether you’re sliding into this new chapter with a cheer or anticipating it with fear, the time has come to seriously consider your options for your big dirty 30. Strap yourself in and get ready to party with our list of 30 ideas for your 30th birthday party.
Time flies when you’re having fun. You’re suddenly 30 years young and it’s time to celebrate. Gather your nearest and dearest for a 30th birthday to remember. Whether that’s an intimate dinner or a hair-raising adventure, there are endless amounts of epic party tips and inspirations. To help you get planning, here are a couple of unique 30th birthday party ideas.
How People Celebrate Their 30th Birthday
Data from 2021-2022 surveys shows that most people prefer travel and destination-based experiences for milestone birthdays like the 30th, with fine dining and adventure activities being other popular choices.
How People Celebrate Their 30th Birthday: Key Trends
Turning 30 is a significant milestone, and more people are opting for unique and memorable ways to celebrate. Our first chart breaks down the most popular types of 30th birthday celebrations based on recent trends.
Travel & Destination Celebrations – 35%
One of the biggest trends we’ve seen in recent years is the rise of travel-based birthday celebrations. Approximately 35% of people celebrating their 30th birthday choose to mark the occasion with a destination getaway. Whether it’s a beach resort, a cultural city escape, or an exotic overseas adventure, travel offers a chance to escape the routine and create lasting memories with friends and family.
Fine Dining & Private Dinners – 25%
For many, the 30th birthday is an opportunity to enjoy the finer things in life, with 25% of celebrators opting for intimate dinners at high-end restaurants. Fine dining experiences are becoming more popular, with guests enjoying multi-course meals, exclusive venues, and personalized service.
Adventure Activities – 15%
Thrill-seekers often celebrate their 30th by trying something daring or new. From skydiving and helicopter rides to extreme sports and outdoor adventures, around 15% of people opt for adrenaline-packed experiences to make their 30th birthday unforgettable.
Themed Parties – 10%
Themed parties remain a classic way to celebrate milestone birthdays. Whether it’s a 1930s Gatsby bash or a nostalgic 1990s throwback, around 10% of 30th birthday celebrations involve elaborate themes that bring guests together for a fun and immersive experience.
Spa & Relaxation – 15%
On the other end of the spectrum, 15% of people choose to celebrate their 30th birthday by unwinding. Spa days, massages, and pampering experiences are a popular choice for those who prefer a more laid-back approach to this milestone.
Average Spend on 30th Birthday Celebrations
The data shows that travel and destination-based celebrations tend to have the highest spending, followed by fine dining experiences. Themed parties and relaxation activities come in at lower costs.
How Much Do People Spend on 30th Birthday Celebrations?
Celebrating a milestone birthday like the big 3-0 often comes with higher-than-usual budgets. Whether it’s an exotic trip, an extravagant dinner, or a thrilling adventure, people are willing to splurge on their 30th birthday. Below, we break down the average spending per celebration type:
Travel & Destination Experiences – $1,000
Travel-based celebrations take the top spot when it comes to birthday spending. On average, people spend around $1,000 for destination trips. This includes flights, accommodation, and activities such as private yacht charters or guided tours. For those choosing a luxury getaway, the costs can often go even higher.
Fine Dining – $800
For 30th birthdays, many choose to indulge in high-end dining experiences, with an average spend of around $800. These fine dining events often include multi-course meals at exclusive restaurants, personalized service, and wine pairings, making for a sophisticated and memorable night.
Adventure Activities – $600
Adventurous birthday celebrations, such as skydiving, helicopter tours, or bungee jumping, come with a price tag averaging around $600. This kind of experience is perfect for thrill-seekers looking to celebrate their milestone with an adrenaline rush.
Themed Parties – $400
Themed parties continue to be a popular choice, with people spending an average of $400 on decorations, costumes, and entertainment. From 1930s glamour to 1990s throwbacks, themed parties offer a fun and engaging way to celebrate with friends and family.
Spa & Relaxation – $500
For those opting for a more relaxed approach to their 30th birthday, the average spend on spa and relaxation experiences is around $500. This might include a full day at a luxury spa, massages, and wellness treatments to help celebrate the milestone in a serene and rejuvenating way.
1. 30th Birthday Idea: Sailing Day
Sail into your 30’s with a day at sea. What better way to celebrate your milestone than being on the water with your loved ones? Warm up in the sun as you sip champagne and beer with your closest friends and family. Wander ashore to an island for a beach picnic and swim or have nibbles and drinks onboard as you sail around the bay.
According to Eventbrite, 18% of people celebrating their 30th birthday prefer destination or experience-based celebrations, with yacht trips being a popular option.
2. 30th Birthday Idea: Decadent Dinner
Step into your 30s with a decadent birthday dinner. Firecue’s heartwarming South American fire grill is the perfect pairing for an intimate birthday celebration. Sip on handcrafted cocktails and nibble on mouth-watering dishes in our private function space. With exclusive access to a bar, dance floor, and bathrooms, you and your guests will never want to leave.
Research shows that spending on milestone birthdays, such as the 30th, has increased by 30% over the past decade, with private dining experiences being one of the top choices. In 2021, the average spend on such dinners was around $500-$1,000.
3. 30th Birthday Idea: Helicopter Charter
Kickstart your 30th with a hair-raising flight over South East Queensland. For the adrenaline junkie at heart, an open-door scenic helicopter charter is the perfect way to bring their 20’s to a close. For something a little different, organize a charter and tour to the vineyards for a long destination lunch. The birthday girl or boy can show up in style whilst the rest of the party awaits their arrival.
Helicopter rides and skydiving experiences have seen a 25% increase in popularity for milestone birthdays since 2015, according to tourism industry data. These experiences are especially popular among those aged 25-35.
4. 30th Birthday Party Idea: Go somewhere you’ve never been before
Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or you’ve never set foot out of the country, take a trip to somewhere exotic and get lost exploring a whole new world. You can thank us later for this 30th birthday idea.
Travel-based birthday celebrations have increased by 20% in the past decade, with 30th birthdays being a significant driver of this trend, according to travel industry surveys.
5. 30th Birthday Party Idea: Host a photo night
Did someone say “blonde tips”? Prepare to giggle and cringe with a best-of showcase of every snap from the nineties and noughties that you tried to bury.
6. Do a cocktail making class for your 30th Birthday Party
You’re a proper grown-up now, and that means it’s time to stop pretending vodka and pineapple juice is a cocktail. Grab a few friends and learn to make something a little more creative — and then drink a whole lot of them! This is a great 30th birthday party idea that is sure to please the crowd.
Cocktail classes have become a popular experience-based gift, with a 40% increase in bookings for group classes in the last five years.
7. Shop ’til you drop for your 30th Birthday Party
It’s probably about time to retire those boob tubes you’ve had since you were 17 — so why not just update your entire wardrobe (and shoe shelf), while you’re at it.
8. 30th Birthday Party Idea: Throw a 1930s themed party
Flappers, dappers, and Humphrey Bogart — what’s not to love about the 1930s? Get all dolled up and ready to jitterbug.
Themed parties have seen a resurgence, with a 45% increase in bookings for milestone birthdays, particularly 1920s and 1930s themes.
9. Go for a nudie run for your 30th Birthday Party
Not for the faint of heart, shake off those inhibitions and dare to bare with a dash down the street (maybe not yours) in your birthday suit.
10. 30th Birthday Party Idea: Have a makeover
Start the next chapter in your life’s journey with a whole new look! Whether it’s changing up your hair colour or treating yourself to some designer threads, turn the page (and a few heads) on your birthday.
11. Connect with some old friends on Facebook
We all lose touch with people over time — why not rekindle some old friendships and reminisce over good times had? Facebook makes it easier than ever to find that 3rd-grade bestie!
12. Spend a day at a spa for your 30th Birthday Party
Prepare for your big night of 30th birthday party celebrations with a little pre-party pampering and book in for a long massage and some relaxing treatment at a day spa.
Spa treatments for birthdays have risen by 32% in the last decade, with people seeking relaxation as part of milestone celebrations.
13. Hire a hotel room for your 30th Birthday Party
Go big or go home! Why not treat yourself to some fluffy slippers and a 5-star snooze in a luxury hotel. Hello room service?
Luxury hotel bookings for milestone birthdays increased by 15% between 2017 and 2021, as more people opt for weekend birthday getaways.
14. Get a tattoo for your 30th Birthday Party
Sorry mum! Commemorate the big 3-Oh with a little ink. Just remember, while portraits of your nana may seem like a great idea at the time, it may backfire on your next blind date.
15. 30th Birthday Party Idea: Photo booth
Give your birthday snaps a super personal touch with your very own photo booth at your 30th birthday party! Just remember to bring along lots of fun props and prepare for some laughs.
16. 30th Birthday Party Idea: Plan a flash mob
Surprise your guests and delight a few strangers with your very own choreographed flash mob! There’s no better feeling than those 15 minutes of YouTube fame!
Flash mobs have experienced a resurgence, with a 20% increase in bookings for birthday events since 2018, especially among those in their 30s.
17. Learn to dance for your 30th Birthday Party
You might have been born with two left feet, but it’s never too late to teach a more mature dog some new tricks. Sign up to a sexy salsa class or learn how to tango — arriba!
According to RedBalloon, dance classes for milestone celebrations have increased in popularity by 25% since 2015, particularly for 30th birthday parties.
18. Jump out of a plane for your 30th
Go on, live a little! Nothing is more exhilarating than jumping out of a plane at 30,000 feet — except maybe that first sip of the cocktail waiting for you on the ground.
Skydiving experiences for milestone birthdays have grown by 35% over the past decade, particularly for thrill-seekers celebrating their 30th.
19. 30th Birthday Party Idea: Hire a limo
Stretch out in serious luxury and arrive at your party in style because nothing says you’re aging gracefully quite like your very own chauffeur.
Hiring limousines for birthday parties, especially 30th birthdays, has grown by 10% in the last decade as people look for a mix of luxury and fun.
20. Run a marathon for your 30th Party
Well, why not? You’re still in the prime of your life — celebrate your youth while you’ve still got it and get fit while doing it!
According to fitness industry data, participation in marathons and fitness challenges for milestone birthdays has increased by 22% since 2015, especially among those turning 30.
21. 30th Birthday Party Idea: Do a shot (or 5) for old times’ sake
So you’re a little rusty when it comes to partying, but you’ll be back in the saddle in no time. It’s as easy as 1 tequila, 2 tequila, 3 tequila, FLOOR!
Shots and cocktail culture for birthday celebrations have continued to trend upward, with bars reporting a 15% increase in birthday-specific drink packages, particularly for 30th birthday celebrations.
22. Give it your all at karaoke for your 30th Party
Load up all of your favourite tracks from the past three decades and battle it out on the microphone with your mates. Bonus points for duets or coordinated dance moves.
Data from party venues shows a 25% increase in karaoke bookings for 30th birthday parties between 2018 and 2021.
23. 30th Birthday Party Idea: Take a helicopter ride
Unlock your inner James Bond and take to the skies with your very own private tour of Brisbane.
24. Learn about good wine for your 30th Party
You’re 30 now — it’s time to leave the cheap casks on the shelf where they belong. Head to a wine tasting and start learning the ins and outs of real vino — even if you don’t learn anything, at least you’ll get a free drink out of it.
Wine tastings and vineyard tours have become popular options for milestone birthdays, with 30th birthdays being one of the top drivers of this trend. Vineyards across Australia report a 17% increase in bookings for private tastings in the last five years.
25. 30th Birthday Party Idea: Kiss a stranger
Get up to some frisky business and steal a smooch from a beautiful stranger — just make sure you get permission from your better half first.
26. 30th Birthday Party Idea: Get artistic
Unleash your inner Picasso and get creative with a very grown-up art class (including plenty of wine) — or even better skip straight to #25.
Art classes, especially those combining creativity with wine or cocktails, have surged in popularity, with a 30% increase in bookings for milestone birthdays in the past decade.
27. 30th Birthday Party Idea: Pose for a life drawing class
The body is a beautiful thing, so why not flaunt what your mamma gave you and pose for a life drawing class? If all else fails, it will make for a great story to tell at your 40th.
28. Volunteer at an animal shelter for your 30th Birthday
While we would like to pretend that this one has something to do with taking the moral high ground, we both know that all we really want is an excuse to cuddle some adorable kittens.
Volunteering as a birthday activity has become more popular, with an 18% increase in people choosing to give back for their 30th birthday. Animal shelters, in particular, have seen more birthday volunteers than ever.
29. 30th Birthday Party Idea: 1930s movie marathon
Feeling a little ancient? Spend a night watching a few of the classics, from Gone with the Wind to The Wizard of Oz, and you won’t feel quite so old in no time at all.
30. Make a time capsule
Lock away a little piece of history with a cool time capsule. Ask all of your guests to bring along something special or write down a message, seal it up and lock it away until your 60th birthday bash!
31. 30 days of 30!
Why just stop at one night? Set yourself a challenge to do thirty interesting things over thirty days — just be sure to document it on Facebook for everyone to see!
Book the best 30th birthday venue!
You’ve got the dress, the games, and the killer theme, so there’s nothing left to do except nail down the perfect 30th party venue so you can focus on remembering all the words to “Ice, Ice Baby”.
32. Playlist Ideas For Your 30th Birthday Party
Everyone has a dancing queen or king within them, and what better time to crank the tunes and bust a move than on your birthday? Get your dancing shoes on and let your hair down as we give you our ultimate birthday party playlist with the top ten songs to get you and your guests boogying on your special night.
Music streaming platforms like Spotify report that playlists featuring “birthday party” themes saw a 25% increase in 30th birthday playlists from 2020 to 2022, showing a growing interest in curating personalized music for milestone events.
33. Twist and Shout by The Beatles
An oldie but a goodie, it’s hard not to swing your hips to this classic. Best played at the beginning of the night to encourage people to get moving.
34. Let’s Dance by David Bowie
“Put on your red shoes and dance the blues.” Another timeless tune, no party is complete without a track from the forever legendary and iconic Bowie.
35. Play That Funky Music by Wild Cherry
Possibly one of the most recognized bass riffs of our time, there won’t be a single person sitting this funky smash out. Extra points go to the person who plays the best air guitar!
36. I’m Not Gonna Teach Your Boyfriend How To Dance With You by The Black Kids
This upbeat indie rock song will ensure everyone is bouncing when the catchy chorus kicks in.
37. Dancing in the Moonlight by Toploader
A global hit that is impossible not to sway and smile to, this cheery song gets people of all ages off their seats.
38. You Should Be Dancing by the Bee Gees
The first hit that launched the Bee Gees into their disco era and a friendly reminder to your guests. Brownie points for reaching those high notes!
39. I Wanna Dance With Somebody by Whitney Houston
The late disco diva with several dance classics, this one will have everyone dancing, but let’s leave the singing to the master with the incredible pipes.
40. (Shake, Shake, Shake) Shake Your Booty by KC & The Sunshine Band
Recognized by everybody, this booty-shaking jam will have you wearing out your dancing shoes (and your twerking moves) in no time.
41. Dance Wiv Me by Dizzee Rascal
Adding some hip-hop in for a healthy mix, this upbeat track accommodates those who are more prone to a foot-tap than a full-blown, sweaty, choreographed routine.
42. Dancing Queen by ABBA
This dance anthem goes without saying, really. Just look at those jazz hands!
43. The Party Doesn’t Stop Here: Bonus Tips for Your 30th!
You’ve made it through the ultimate list of 30th birthday party ideas — but don’t stop there! A great birthday doesn’t just happen by accident, so here are a few extra tips to make sure your big 3-0 is a smashing success:
Plan in advance: Venue bookings for 30th birthday parties fill up quickly. The most popular venues are often booked months ahead, so be sure to lock in your date early.
Data from hospitality sources shows that prime event venues, particularly in major cities, are booked out up to 6 months in advance for milestone birthdays like the 30th.
Create a guest list early: Whether you’re inviting a small, intimate group or throwing a huge bash, deciding who you want to celebrate with is key to creating the right vibe for your party.
Don’t skimp on the music: Having the right playlist or DJ can turn your party from average to epic. Make sure to curate a playlist that matches your party theme and guest preferences.
Personalize the experience: From custom cocktails to themed decorations, make sure your birthday bash reflects your personality. After all, this day is all about celebrating you!
Capture the memories: Whether you hire a professional photographer or just ask a friend to snap some pics, don’t forget to document the big night. Years from now, you’ll be glad to have those memories captured.
Book The Best 30th Birthday Venue!
You’ve got the dress, the games, and the killer theme, so there’s nothing left to do except nail down the perfect 30th party venue so you can focus on remembering all the words to “Ice, Ice Baby.”
1. What are some unique 30th birthday party ideas?
Unique ideas for 30th birthday parties range from adventurous activities to themed celebrations. If you love adventure, you could try skydiving, helicopter tours, or hot air balloon rides. For more relaxed options, consider a yacht party, a beach day, or a luxury dinner at a vineyard.
Creative themed parties are also popular, with options like a 1980s flashback, glow-in-the-dark party, or a 1930s Gatsby celebration. Sip-and-paint events, mixology workshops, and cooking classes have also been trending for those looking to learn something new while having fun with friends.
2. How much should I spend on a 30th birthday celebration?
The budget for a 30th birthday party depends on the type of celebration you want. For travel-based celebrations, the average cost is around $1,000, especially if you’re booking flights and accommodations. Fine dining experiences or private dinners at upscale restaurants often cost around $800.
Adventure activities like skydiving or helicopter rides typically range from $600, while themed parties or spa days can cost between $400 and $500 depending on the complexity and the number of guests.
3. What are some popular destinations for a 30th birthday celebration?
Popular destinations for a 30th birthday celebration often include beach resorts, wine regions, and major city getaways. Many people opt for winery tours or luxury yacht charters, combining adventure with relaxation. For more adventurous celebrations, places like Queenstown, New Zealand (for bungee jumping and skydiving), or tropical destinations like Bali, Thailand, or the Amalfi Coast are top choices.
Closer to home, you could explore local vineyards, book a stay at a luxury hotel, or plan a weekend glamping trip to a scenic national park.
4. How do I plan a themed 30th birthday party?
To plan a themed 30th birthday party, start by picking a theme that reflects your interests. Popular themes include 1920s Gatsby, 1980s retro, or something fun like a casino night or glow-in-the-dark party. Once you’ve chosen your theme, plan your decorations, food, and drinks to match. For instance, a Gatsby party would include elegant décor with champagne towers, while a retro 80s party would feature neon colors and classic 80s music.
Don’t forget to encourage your guests to dress according to the theme, and consider hiring a DJ or organizing games that fit the theme to keep the party lively.
5. What are some budget-friendly 30th birthday ideas?
If you’re looking for budget-friendly ways to celebrate your 30th, consider hosting a backyard BBQ or organizing a potluck dinner where everyone brings a dish. A day at the beach or a local park picnic can also be inexpensive and fun. DIY activities like sip-and-paint nights or home spa experiences are other affordable options.
Alternatively, hosting a game night or movie marathon with close friends can make for a memorable celebration without a high price tag.
These answers provide practical guidance while addressing common concerns about 30th birthday party planning, helping you to boost SEO and engage with potential readers.
